Prestonsburg

Prestonsburg is the county seat of Floyd County situated along the Big Sandy River valley in eastern Kentucky's Appalachian region. The city occupies a valley setting with surrounding hills and features a downtown area that serves as the local civic and commercial hub.

John Spurlock established Preston's Station in 1791, which developed into the county seat when Floyd County was organized in 1799. This early foundation established the settlement as a regional administrative center in the eastern Appalachian area.

The Mountain Arts Center serves as a gathering place where local and regional musicians perform traditional Appalachian music and showcase regional artistic traditions. Visitors encounter the living musical heritage that shapes the identity of this Appalachian community.

The city provides access to hiking trails at Sugarcamp Mountain, wildlife viewing opportunities, and boating on local waters. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear for the rolling terrain and outdoor activities typical of this mountain region.

US Route 23 passes through the city as part of The Country Music Highway, connecting the birthplaces of numerous country music performers. This road marks a musical corridor that visitors often follow to explore the region's connection to the genre.

Location: Floyd County

Inception: 1818

Elevation above the sea: 193 m

Website: http://prestonsburgky.org

GPS coordinates: 37.66780,-82.75890

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:08